When you want to add a custom design that reflects your brand and sets you apart from the competition, it is important to select a printing technique that offers vibrant colors and will stand up against repeated wear and washing. Screen printing is the oldest and most versatile of all apparel decoration methods, allowing you to print complex designs with intricate details. While a wide variety of digital and heat transfer printing techniques are available, screen printing is the best choice when it comes to high-quality apparel with superior durability.

One of the primary advantages of screen printing is its ability to produce multiple color prints easily. When working with a team or group, you can create unique, eye-catching designs that reflect the spirit of your brand and its values. Screen printed designs can also include a company logo or other visuals to help promote your business and brand awareness.

A quality, long-lasting screen print requires proper preparation of the image to ensure a great print every time. The first step is to clean the screen with a mild detergent to remove any residues and coat it with the photo-sensitive emulsion. This step is extremely important, and a well-prepared screen will allow for a smooth and precise layer of ink when printing onto the garment. The emulsion must dry completely before the stencil can be used to print.

Once the screen is ready, a stencil of the design is positioned on top of the screen. Then, the screen is lowered on the printing board and ink is applied across the entire surface. The squeegee is then pulled over the entire surface, which pushes ink through any open areas of the stencil. When the print is complete, the squeegee is removed and any open areas of the screen are washed away, leaving the stencil for your design.

Whether you are printing a team-building event, charity fundraiser or other promotional event, you need to provide your customers with shirts they will love to wear and that are suitable for the intended purpose. Choosing a soft, durable fabric such as cotton or polyester is essential to providing your customers with a long-lasting and comfortable wear. If you are printing on performance or athletic fabrics, it is essential to use a screen printing ink that is formulated to be both quick-drying and moisture wicking to keep your customers comfortable and performing at their best.

Creating a screen print involves a number of different processes and requires extensive training to become proficient. Most screen printers don’t keep large inventory on hand, and they must order the garments from a wholesaler. It is important to choose a supplier with a knowledgeable sales team that can guide you in selecting the right apparel for your specific needs, and who can help you maximize your profits. This will ensure that you are getting the most out of your equipment and delivering a consistent product to your customers.

However, it is important to keep in mind that consistency is not always a reality with screen printing, as there are a number of variables that can affect the final result. The tension in the screen, clogging of the mesh or squeegee sharpness can all lead to slight variations in the final print. This can be mitigated by hiring the best custom printing company for larger quantity orders where consistent results are critical.